4 surprise cuts the Chicago Bears could make after 2023 NFL Draft
By Ryan Heckman
Surprise cuts the Chicago Bears could make after 2023 NFL Draft: Justin Jones, DT
The Bears’ first selection in the second round ended up being Florida defensive tackle Gervon Dexter. With that pick, Justin Jones was officially put on notice. In fact, I would argue that Jones wasn’t just put on notice in terms of losing his starting job. I believe Dexter took that job as soon as he was drafted.
Furthermore, Jones could end up being a cut candidate very soon. Last year, he signed a two-year deal worth $12 million. But, this year, the Bears could cut him and save nearly $5 million. For a guy who was a serious liability last year, it would only make sense for Chicago to let him walk.
The only area where Jones was halfway decent, albeit in spurts, was in the pass rush. When it came to defending the run, Jones was horrific. He was almost unwatchable. And, that’s inexcusable. That’s why Poles addressed the position so heavily in the draft, not only with Dexter but Zacch Pickens and Travis Bell.